Ace a job interview

Learn how to get hired for that deam job with these insider techniques to help you stand out and get the job.

Look the part: Appearance counts for a lot when you have just a few minutes to form an impression. Always dress professionally.

Prepare to answer tough questions: Some you might encounter: What is your biggest weakness? What do you have to offer over another candidate? How would you handle an on-the-job problem?

Do your research: Find out everything you can about the company, the interviewer and the job. Use this knowledge to better sell yourself.

Explain any work gaps in your résumé: If you put your career on hold to raise your kids, take credit for your accomplishments outside the workforce, such as heading up the PTA or raising a large sum of money for an organization.

Be friendly: A can-do personality sometimes weighs as much as or more than specific skills, which are often teachable.

Follow up with a hand-written thank-you note: Be sure to reference a specific topic you discussed that will remind the interviewer who you are.